Shadrach is a very old circus-trained Clydesdale horse - and the favourite family pet. When Hannah discovers that Shadrach has been sold to a dog food factory, she decides to mount an heroic rescue and enlists the help of her two younger brothers. From the beginning, their plans go seriously wrong. A brilliant story set in the Marlborough Sounds that allows you to laugh and cry along with the young characters of the story. Each of the children have their own personalities and the author Joy Cowley's descriptive writing allows you to see and hear each of these characters in the role she has cast them in. Hannah is imaginative and dreamy and yet she is capable of putting a plan into action. Mikey, second in command does as he is told and is able to follow instructions although he is a little apprehensive. Sky a young, young boy is eager to be involved so creates imaginary playmates and scenarios for him to play in. A must read that embraces good character, setting descriptions as well as delightful use of vocabulary. ( )

Sophie and Joe decide to send their old and failing horse, Shadrach, to a dog food factory but lie about to their children Hannah, Mikey and Sky. In their small town the secret is not kept for long and Hannah instigates a rescue mission. The children rescue Shadrach, creating chaos in their wake. Shadrach dies after the rescue but is surrounded by the children. The family and friends conduct a memorial service for Shadrach, thereby acknowledging the strength of the children's bond with him. Sophie tries to persuade the children to get a new horse, but as Mikey says "If one of us died and people said you should adopt a new child ...". The story ends on a happy note, with the promise of Shadrach's foal. Followed by two sequels Gladly, Here I Come and Shadrach Girl. ( )